Our story began with a simple Instagram post and a beautiful girl named Sydney who instantly caught my eye. What started as curiosity turned into fate, with a chance meeting at a conference and a dinner that felt like the beginning of something special. We stayed up late talking about life, love, and the kind of future we both hoped to find. From FaceTime calls across four hours of distance to a weekend visit filled with laughter, connection, and puppy playdates—we knew this was more than just timing. Eight months, countless memories, and one unforgettable trip to Finland later… I asked her to be mine forever.

It all started when I was asked to work a booth at an orthopedic conference in Point Clear, AL! I was looking forward to the beautiful running trails and time away, but God had much bigger plans than I imagined. I'd heard rumors of this 'single surgeon', but thought nothing of it, as he lived 4 hours away. I met him briefly at the conference but it wasn't until dinner the last night of the conference where he and I actually got to connect. Initially, we mostly talked about our careers, me from pediatric cancer and him into orthopedics. With his sister passing from a pediatric cancer, that immediately led us down a path talking about families, faith, and aspirations. He came from a family of law enforcement and education, as did I (plus military). Had a love of dogs and traveling, as did I. Was an OU fan but hated UT, so we had a common enemy. Scottie and I connected on Instagram where we would send obnoxiously long messages back and forth until I finally gave him my number. We toyed around with the idea of him joining my trip to Banff but I figured our first date shouldn't' be an international vacation where I may collapse from a marathon I didn't train for. I drove down the following weekend and I knew right away that he'd be the guy I ended up with. Thoughtful, kind, and hates University of Texas, the only things that matter. 8 months later, he planned the most incredible and thoughtful trip to ask me to marry him. Scottie is more than I ever knew to pray for and can't wait to celebrate with everyone!!